A utility pole fire in Germantown turned the Thursday commute into a slow crawl, knocking out traffic signals at several busy intersections and forcing emergency crews to shut down lanes. Firefighters and city crews stayed on scene around Germantown Road, Poplar Pike, and West Street while motorists were urged to take it easy, expect delays, and, if possible, pick another route until repairs are finished.
Intersections Affected And City Guidance
According to the City of Germantown, the pole fire knocked out traffic signals at four key intersections: Poplar Pike and West Street; West Street and North Street; Germantown Road and Poplar Pike; and Stout Road and Germantown Road. Germantown Fire Department crews moved in to block traffic while they secured the scene, and the city reminded drivers to treat all of the dark signals as four-way stops. Officials also encouraged motorists to use alternate routes whenever they can to help ease backups in the area.
Who To Call About Outages And Downed Lines
If you spot a downed wire or experience a power outage tied to the pole fire, you are asked to call Memphis Light, Gas and Water’s outage line at 544-6500 and check MLGW’s outage map for updates on restoration, according to Memphis Light, Gas and Water. For immediate hazards such as active flames, arcing wires, or heavy smoke, call 911 so fire and police can coordinate the response and keep the area safe. MLGW’s outage tools can help residents follow repair progress and see estimated restoration times.
How To Get City Emergency Alerts
The city also used the incident as a reminder that residents can sign up for Germantown Alert to get real-time text notifications about emergencies and traffic problems, as outlined on the city’s website at Germantown Alert. Registration instructions and contact information for the Communications Office are listed on the city’s news and publications pages for anyone who needs more details.
